Last year, we missed this reception event because of COVID, and because of the weather, we had to cancel an outside event.
We appreciate your patience…. And your perseverance.
Those who are in the arts know all too well about perseverance.
The arts hold up a mirror to society…
Art makes us feel, think, look at life from another perspective.
The artists’ work reflects the emotions and feelings that define us as individuals and our collective humanity.
Thank you for your appreciation and support of the arts, and the vital role the arts play in bringing us together… and, at their very best, for bringing us together to help heal us.
Tonight, I know you will be impressed with the quality of musicianship, which, I believe, reflects the quality of music education at Oakland University, a testament to our dedicated and talent faculty.
You’ll see and hear our students and faculty performing side by side. Students and faculty working together to make music is what distinguishes the OU Department of Music, which is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
To provide a first-class, inspiring musical education for students, we are making extensive renovations to Varner Hall. We believe there is a great opportunity to attract students as we further develop our rehearsal and performance spaces, and as we create more spaces, we are certain that Oakland’s music reputation will be further elevated.
And, of course, I must emphasize that our excellent program is anchored by an incredibly talented staff, who, by the way, are also showing their perseverance for putting up with some of the inconveniences caused by the renovation construction.
As each of you know, the arts are one of the pillars in higher education.
Often, the conversation about the sciences and business take center stage… but a truly engaging and inspiring university will have the arts at the core of the student experience.
At Oakland, we are committed to the arts… and the role artists and the arts play in our world….
We invite you to learn more about our plans to develop the arts and arts programing, and be a part of the OU arts community.
